Posts with the category “encouragement-and-inspiration”
Walking with the Wise
by Pastor Jeff on September 7th, 2024
9/7/2024"Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm."- Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)Have you ever been unfairly accused of being something just because of those you hang out with? We know the term as “guilty by association.”In this proverb, Solomon gives us a straightforward yet valuable piece of advice: the people we surround ourselves with have a significant impact on our l... Read More
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Nourished by the Word
by Pastor Jeff on September 4th, 2024
9/4/2024“Jesus answered, ‘It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’â€â€” Matthew 4:4 (NIV)In this passage, Jesus is in the wilderness, facing temptation after 40 days of fasting. Physically, He is hungry, tired, and vulnerable, yet He responds to Satan's temptation with a powerful truth: “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word... Read More
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Growing in Love and Discernment
by Pastor Jeff on September 3rd, 2024
9/3/2024"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ."- Philippians 1:9-10 (NIV)Paul’s prayer for the believers in Philippi offers a powerful blueprint for spiritual growth: a love that is both abundant and discerning. In these verses, Paul empha... Read More
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When Anxiety Overwhelms
by Pastor Jeff on September 2nd, 2024
9/2/2024“When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.†— Psalm 94:19 (NIV)Life can sometimes feel like a storm with waves of anxiety crashing against us. Uncertainties about the future, health concerns, financial struggles, or strained relationships can all conspire to overwhelm our hearts and minds. In these moments, we may feel paralyzed by fear, weighed down by worry, or b... Read More
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The Living and Active Word of God
by Pastor Jeff on September 1st, 2024
9/1/2024"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." - Hebrews 4:12 NIVWhen was the last time you truly felt the power of God's Word? Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that the Bible is not just a collection of ancient writings or historical records. It is,... Read More
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Nothing is Impossible with God
by Pastor Jeff on August 31st, 2024
8/31/2024“For no word from God will ever fail.†— Luke 1:37 (NIV)Luke 1:37 stands as a resounding declaration of God’s unlimited power and unwavering faithfulness. These words were spoken by the angel Gabriel to Mary, a young woman from Nazareth, who had just received astonishing news: she would conceive a child by the Holy Spirit, and this child would be the Son of God. Mary, understandably perpl... Read More
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The Word Became Flesh
by Pastor Jeff on August 30th, 2024
8/30/2024“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.â€â€” John 1:1 (NIV)John 1:1 is one of the most profound and foundational verses in all of Scripture. It takes us back to the very beginning of everything, long before creation, time, and the universe itself. This verse is the starting point of John's Gospel, but it also invites us to the starting point of eterni... Read More
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Praise the Lord, All Day Long
by Pastor Jeff on August 29th, 2024
8/29/2024"From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised."- Psalm 113:3 (NIV)From the moment the sun rises to the time it sets, we are invited to a continuous act of worship. Psalm 113:3 calls us to praise God not just in specific moments or during Sunday services, but all day long, every day. It is a reminder that God's worthiness is not confined to p... Read More
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An Open Invitation
by Pastor Jeff on August 28th, 2024
8/28/2024“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.â€â€” *Revelation 3:20 (NIV)In this powerful verse, Jesus speaks directly to each of us with a personal invitation. Imagine the scene: He stands at the door of your heart, knocking gently but persistently, waiting for you to let Him in. This is not... Read More
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Fulfilling the Law Through Love
by Pastor Jeff on August 27th, 2024
08/27/2024“For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’â€- Galatians 5:14 (NIV)In a world often divided by differences, this verse from Galatians offers a powerful reminder of the simplicity and depth of God’s call for us. Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, distills the entirety of God’s law into one essential command: “Love your neighbor as your... Read More
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Imitating God
by Pastor Jeff on August 26th, 2024
8/26/2024"Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children."— Ephesians 5:1 (NIV)As children of God, we are called to imitate Him in all that we do. Just as a child looks up to their parent and seeks to emulate their behavior, we too should strive to live as God's beloved children.The Apostle Paul encourages us to imitate God. We are called to reflect His character in our daily lives, emb... Read More
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Embracing the Name of Christ
by Pastor Jeff on August 25th, 2024
08/25/2024"However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name."- 1 Peter 4:16 (NIV)As Christians, we are not immune to suffering. In fact, Jesus himself told us that in this world we will face trials and tribulations. Yet, even in the midst of our suffering, we are called to remain steadfast in our faith and to continue to praise God.In our journey of ... Read More
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Blessed Are the Persecuted
by Pastor Jeff on August 24th, 2024
8/24/2024"Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."- Matthew 5:10 (NIV)In the world we live in, standing firm in your faith can sometimes come at a cost. Jesus knew this well, which is why He included this powerful beatitude in His Sermon on the Mount. The promise is clear: those who endure persecution for the sake of righteousness are ble... Read More
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Embracing Hope Through Suffering
by Pastor Jeff on August 23rd, 2024
8/23/2024"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."—Romans 5:3-5 (NIV)The Christian life is not a promise of ease and comfort; instead, it often comes... Read More
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The Power of Repentance
by Pastor Jeff on August 22nd, 2024
8/22/2024"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."— Acts 3:19 (NIV)Repentance is a word that often stirs a sense of discomfort or guilt, yet it is a beautiful gift from God. In Acts 3:19, Peter calls us to repent and turn to God with a promise: our sins will be wiped out, and we will experience times of refreshing from the... Read More
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Seeking the Kingdom First
by Pastor Jeff on August 21st, 2024
8/21/2024"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." — Matthew 6:33 (NIV)In a world that constantly demands our attention, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of daily necessities—food, clothing, security, and success. We often find ourselves worrying about the future, wondering if we'll have enough to meet our needs. Yet, in Matthew... Read More
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An Internal Transformation
by Pastor Jeff on August 20th, 2024
8/20/2024"Even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning." Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity."—Joel 2:12-13 (NIV)In the book of Joel, the prophet calls the people of Israel to repentance in the face... Read More
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God's Faithfulness in Our Trials
by Pastor Jeff on August 19th, 2024
8/19/2024"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."- 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)Temptation is a universal experience. It’s something every person faces, regardless of their faith or life situation. However, the assu... Read More
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Overcoming Unbelief
by Pastor Jeff on August 18th, 2024
8/18/2024Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!â€â€” Mark 9:24 (NIV)In Mark 9:24, we find a father in desperate need, standing before Jesus with a son who is suffering. The father has sought help from Jesus’ disciples, but they were unable to heal the boy. This man's honest cry to Jesus is so relatable to many of us. We may have moments when we believe in... Read More
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Showing Mercy to Those Who Doubt
by Pastor Jeff on August 17th, 2024
8/17/2024"Be merciful to those who doubt;" — Jude 1:22 (NIV)Doubt is a common experience, even for the most faithful among us. In moments of uncertainty, when the path forward seems unclear, doubt can creep in, challenging our beliefs and shaking our confidence. Jude, in his brief but powerful letter, reminds us of our responsibility toward those who are struggling with doubt. He calls us to respo... Read More
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Blessed Are Those Who Believe
by Pastor Jeff on August 16th, 2024
8/16/2024Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."—John 20:29 (NIV)The words Jesus spoke to Thomas after His resurrection carry a profound message for us today. Thomas, often referred to as "Doubting Thomas," had not been present when Jesus first appeared to the other disciples. He declared that he would not belie... Read More
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A Cheerful Giver
by Pastor Jeff on August 15th, 2024
8/15/2024"Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."—2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV)Giving is an essential part of the Christian faith, but how we give matters just as much as what we give. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, the Apostle Paul highlights the importance of the attitude behind our giving. He reminds us that our... Read More
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Walking by the Spirit
by Pastor Jeff on August 14th, 2024
8/14/2024"So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh."— Galatians 5:16 (NIV)In our daily walk with Christ, we often face a tension between two forces—the desires of the flesh and the leading of the Holy Spirit. The "flesh" in this context refers to our natural inclinations, the tendencies that pull us away from God’s will and towards selfishness, pride, and sin... Read More
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Trusting God's Guidance
by Pastor Jeff on August 13th, 2024
8/13/2024"In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."— Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)We all have dreams, ambitions, and plans. We map out our lives, set goals, and work hard to achieve them. It’s natural to want to have control over where we are going and how we are going to get there. Proverbs 16:9 acknowledges this human tendency to plan, but it also offers a gentle re... Read More
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Joy in Trials
by Pastor Jeff on August 12th, 2024
8/12/2024"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance."- James 1:2-3 (NIV)Life is filled with challenges. Some are small, like daily frustrations, while others are significant, like the loss of a loved one or a personal crisis. In this passage, James encourages us to find joy in the mid... Read More
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Humility Before Honor
by Pastor Jeff on August 11th, 2024
8/11/2024"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time."- 1 Peter 5:6 (NIV)In a world that often values self-promotion, pride, and assertiveness, the concept of humility can seem counterintuitive. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to humble ourselves before God. This verse reminds us that true strength and success come not from exalting oursel... Read More
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A Heart of Gratitude
by Pastor Jeff on August 10th, 2024
8/10/2024"Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done."– Psalm 105:1 (NIV)In this verse, we find a powerful call to action that centers on gratitude, testimony, and the proclamation of God's goodness. The psalmist begins with a command to "give praise to the Lord," reminding us that gratitude should be a fundamental posture of our hearts. When we recog... Read More
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God's Work -In Us
by Pastor Jeff on August 9th, 2024
8/9/2024“For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.â€â€” Philippians 2:13 (NIV)One of the most comforting truths in the Christian journey is the realization that we are not alone in our efforts to live out our faith. Philippians 2:13 reminds us that it is God Himself who is at work within us, guiding our desires and empowering our actions to align with His... Read More
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Finishing Strong
by Pastor Jeff on August 8th, 2024
8/8/2024"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."— 2 Timothy 4:7 (NIV)As we reflect on this verse, we are reminded of the Christian journey we are all called to walk. Life is often described as a race, a battle, a fight. And just like any race or battle, we are bound to face challenges, obstacles, and difficulties along the way. But the key is to keep our eye... Read More
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Working for the Lord
by Pastor Jeff on August 5th, 2024
8/5/2024"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."— Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)In our daily lives, it's easy to become focused on pleasing those around us—our bosses, colleagues, or family members. We strive for recognition, prom... Read More
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A Foundation of Faith
by Pastor Jeff on August 4th, 2024
8/4/2024"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."- Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)Faith is the bedrock of our relationship with God. Hebrews defines faith as both confidence and assurance. It is a firm trust in the promises of God and a certainty in the things we cannot physically see or touch. This verse reminds us of the power of faith in our lives. Remember, faith... Read More
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Trusting in the Name of the Lord
by Pastor Jeff on August 3rd, 2024
8/3/2024Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.– Psalm 20:7 (NIV)*In our world today, it is easy to put our trust in material things, our resources, or in our own abilities. We may trust in our bank accounts, our jobs, our relationships, or even our own strength and intelligence. It’s easy to seek security in the tangible But this verse reminds us t... Read More
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Trust in the Lord: A Source of Blessing
by Pastor Jeff on August 2nd, 2024
8/2/2024"But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him."— Jeremiah 17:7 (NIV)In our daily lives, we often face challenges that test our faith and confidence. The world offers countless sources of false security—wealth, status, human relationships—but these are fleeting and unreliable. It can be easy to lose hope and trust in the goodness of God. We may face challenges a... Read More
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The Race of Faith
by Pastor Jeff on August 1st, 2024
8/1/2024"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."— 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 (NIV)In these verses, the apostle Paul compares the Christian life to a race. Just as a... Read More
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Exceeding Our Expectations
by Pastor Jeff on July 31st, 2024
7/31/2024"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."— Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV)Each and every day, there are moments where we find ourselves limited by our own expectations and imaginations. We pray for what we think... Read More
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The Power of Meditation
by Pastor Jeff on July 30th, 2024
7/30/2024"Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."- Joshua 1:8 (NIV)In Joshua 1:8, we are given a profound piece of advice on how to live a life of prosperity and success. God is instructing Joshua to constantly keep His word in his thoughts and actions. Just ... Read More
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A Race of Endurance
by Pastor Jeff on July 29th, 2024
7/29/2024"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."- Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)In this powerful verse from Hebrews, we are reminded that our journey of faith is akin to a race. This is not a sprint, but a marathon requiring steadfastness ... Read More
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Finishing the Race with Joy
by Pastor Jeff on July 28th, 2024
7/28/2024"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace."— Acts 20:24 (NIV)Paul's words in Acts 20:24 reflect a life wholly dedicated to the mission God has given him. His focus isn't on personal gain or comfort but on faithfully completing the task set befo... Read More
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The Good Fight of Faith
by Pastor Jeff on July 27th, 2024
7/27/2024"Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses."— 1 Timothy 6:12 (NIV)As believers, we are called to engage in the good fight of faith. This isn't a call to physical battle but a spiritual struggle against doubt, fear, and the temptations of this world. This fight is against th... Read More
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Stand Firm in Faith
by Pastor Jeff on July 26th, 2024
7/26/2024"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."— 1 Corinthians 16:13 (NIV)In this powerful verse, Paul gives a fourfold exhortation that calls for vigilance, steadfastness, courage, and strength. Each of these commands addresses a crucial aspect of our spiritual journey. These are powerful commands to live by as followers of Christ. He reminds us to be on our guard,... Read More
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2024
January
In The Beginning: A Great Place to Start.Do you see what I see?Hide and SeekSurrendering to God's GuidanceThe Benefits of Renewing Our MindA Light that Never CeasesAre You In Church?God Makes All Things NewThe Value of Each OtherRenewed Day by DayDelight in the Presence of the LordNever AloneGod: Our Refuge and StrengthPursuing Peace and Shunning EvilRejoicing in God's PromisesSeeking and FindingThe Faithfulness of God: Our Source of EncouragementA Heart of AbundanceSowing Righteousness, Reaping God's LoveThe Power of God at WorkPray. Pause. Patience.It’s Time to Go to WorkOur Father in HeavenThe Power of Prayer and Confidence in GodFinding Peace Through PrayerMay You Have Ears That HearThe Holy Spirit: Our Source of Strength and HopeThe Persistent Pursuit of FaithThe Story of GraceWe Know Not The HourGreed Be Gone
February
United in ChristThe Seeking ShepherdDo You Hear Me?Turn It OnMy Help Comes From The LordThe Patient Love of GodHe Never Forgets The GoodThe Overwhelming Mercy of GodUnity in the Body of ChristForgiveness - A Reflection of God's LoveHoliness through PeaceDevotion and HonorLove Your EnemiesThe Great Exchange of GraceWalking in LoveWe Must Die to LiveThe Most Famous VerseThe Ultimate SacrificeThe Lamb of GodReflecting God's HeartHome SickChosen and CalledEmbracing Our Identity as Children of GodEmbracing Our Identity in ChristHe Is All We NeedTrusting GodBuilding Yourself Up in FaithBeing A Radiant Witnesses in God's KingdomYou Cannot Be Healed of The Things That You Hide
March
Embracing Divine ForgivenessThe Power of ForgivenessFinding Peace Through FaithGlorifying God's NameKeeping Our Focus on JesusEvery Good Gift Comes from AboveWorshiping the CreatorFinding Strength in God's PromisesThe Nearness of GodCreated for Good WorksGo and Preach the GospelThe Power of the GospelThe Way, the Truth, and the LifeThe Secret of True GenerosityGuided By The LightFollowing the Servant KingHe Was Fully ManFully ForgivenPraise and Worship AlwaysHoly is His NameLiving as a WitnessesCome. See. Go. Tell. Listen. Understand.For Such A Time As ThisThe Arrival of the Servant KingThey Will Always BeThe Power of PrayerThe Weight of BetrayalServing Others with HumilityEnter with ConfidenceRaised to New LifeHe Is Not Here